Cruise Formal Night - What do I wear?

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Cruise Formal Night - What do I wear?

Cruise Tips

Formal night(s) varies from cruise line to cruise line in what is expected for a passenger to wear for formal night.  Some lines are very casual, while others do request special attire such as tuxedos for men.

Among the most casual requirements is that of Norwegian Cruise Lines as part of their "Freestyle" environment.  Norwegian allows people to enter the main dining room during Formal Night provided you are not wearing shorts, a tank top, or sandals (for men).  You can dress up in a gown or cocktail dress for women or a tuxedo for men if you choose - every night or just on formal night.  The choice is yours.  Suggested options can include "Sunday's best".  A nice dress, pantsuit, skirt and blouse for women.  A golf shirt and dress pants with closed in shoes for men.   For children the standards are similar. No shorts, tank tops, etc.  Absolutely no flip flops.  As these are against health regulations.

In general, it is requested that women or girls wear a dress or pantsuit, at a minimum, with a preference given to a cocktail dress or gown.  For men, the minimum is a dress shirt with tie, a dinner jacket or suit, and dress shoes or closed in shoes.  The standards are similar for children.  However, in some instances, boys are permitted to enter with a dress shirt, tie and dress pants.

Formal nights are offered and vary in number according to the duration of the cruise.   On the average, it is one night for a cruise up to 5-days in duration.  Two nights for those cruises that are seven to ten days in duration.  Again, this can vary by cruise line.

Not meeting minimal requirements may prevent you from gaining entry into the main dining room.  You host or hostess may request that you return to your stateroom to change into something more appropriate, rent a tuxedo from their shop on board, suggest an alternative dining venue (ie:  Lido Deck Buffet), or may suggest room service for that evening.

Please check with your cruise line or your professional travel agent to clarify the standards set by the cruise line on which you will be traveling to avoid disappointment.